WO2002037443A1 - Alarm apparatus - Google Patents

Alarm apparatus Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2002037443A1
WO2002037443A1 PCT/SE2001/002368 SE0102368W WO0237443A1 WO 2002037443 A1 WO2002037443 A1 WO 2002037443A1 SE 0102368 W SE0102368 W SE 0102368W WO 0237443 A1 WO0237443 A1 WO 0237443A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
control unit
alarm
sensor
unit
smoke
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/SE2001/002368
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Esbjörn Eriksson
Original Assignee
Globala Trygghetsbolaget Ab
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from SE0003971A external-priority patent/SE0003971L/en
Priority claimed from SE0003972A external-priority patent/SE0003972D0/en
Application filed by Globala Trygghetsbolaget Ab filed Critical Globala Trygghetsbolaget Ab
Priority to AU2002212885A priority Critical patent/AU2002212885A1/en
Publication of WO2002037443A1 publication Critical patent/WO2002037443A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B25/00—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
    • G08B25/001—Alarm cancelling procedures or alarm forwarding decisions, e.g. based on absence of alarm confirmation
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B19/00—Alarms responsive to two or more different undesired or abnormal conditions, e.g. burglary and fire, abnormal temperature and abnormal rate of flow
    • G08B19/005—Alarms responsive to two or more different undesired or abnormal conditions, e.g. burglary and fire, abnormal temperature and abnormal rate of flow combined burglary and fire alarm systems

Definitions

  • the present invention refers to a control unit for at least one sensor for use in a security system. Further the invention refers to an alarm unit, a method and a computer program product for use in the security system.
  • the alarm unit is installed by a professional performing the installation on the actual place where the alarm unit is to be placed. Further, the professional has to configure or program the alarm unit to enable communication between the alarm unit and an external unit, such as an external alarm central.
  • an external unit such as an external alarm central.
  • the installation is not simple to perform for a layman who has bought the alarm unit. More simplified equipment are available today which a layman or a user may install themselves. However, these simpler equipment have either a poor quality regarding for example the working reliability or they still need a configuration on place to be connected to an external unit by means of a communication link e.g. telephone line. Further, a personal identification number (PIN) usually has to be used to get access to the communication link.
  • PIN personal identification number
  • Internet and IP (Internet protocol) based networks provides new kinds of services and products, which all may share a common infrastructure for communication.
  • Internet provides a plurality of protocols for a simple communication between different units and services. It is for example possible to talk on the telephone by means of IP-telecommunication and to surf the web, simultaneously, without the need of double communication network as the case is in ordinary telecommunication networks.
  • the patent document GB 2 325 548 describes a security alarm system having a control unit coupled to a detector and arranged to emit an alarm signal. Further, this control unit is provided with a server for data communication by means of a circuit switched telephone based data network. By means of this server, status data is transferred from the alarm system and by means of which server the alarm system also may be reconfigurated based on instructions from the network user.
  • the shown system according to the prior art is based on a dialled telephone connection and communicates with a user only at the establishment of the connection and is controlled by commands and instructions from the user.
  • the Swedish patent SE 512 589 describes a method for checking the communication between an alarm unit and an alarm central in an alarm and surveillance system.
  • the method comprises the sending of an identification message from the alarm unit to an identification unit coupled to the alarm central.
  • the method comprises the utilisation of circuit switched technique, thus when an identification message does not reach the identification unit the transmission from the alarm unit has to be interrupted before the identification unit is able to send a check message to the alarm unit.
  • the alarm unit is thus inactive when this check is performed.
  • the patent US 6,067,346 discloses a method and a system for providing redundancy for security systems served by the public switched telephone network (PSTN).
  • PSTN public switched telephone network
  • a cable modem Upon detection of inoperability of a telecommunication line serving the system via the PSTN a cable modem extends an alert message to a security monitoring service via a packet data network.
  • the redundancy provided by the packet data network provides an extra measure of security for the occupants of the secured premise.
  • the patent document GB 2 313 458 describes a supervised alarm reporting system comprising a controlling interface unit linked to one or more event sensors associated with a premise.
  • the controlling interface unit communicates with a central unit for monitoring the sensors using wired communication lines.
  • the controlling interface unit transmits periodic test signals to the central unit so that the latter is apprised of the status of the communication link.
  • the general aim of the invention is to solve the problem of providing remote managing of an Internet connectable alarm apparatus in a easy way that do not require a specialised equipment in the alarm apparatus.
  • An aspect of the problem is to provide access, e.g. find and reach, to an Internet connectable alarm unit.
  • Another aspect of the problem is to managing an Internet connectable alarm apparatus in a safe way.
  • Yet another aspect of the problem is to provide an Internet connectable alarm apparatus that is easy to install for a layman and that does not require configuration on place.
  • Another aim of the invention is to solve the problem of providing a control unit for an alarm sensor in a distributed alarm system.
  • the control unit provides a continuous communication from an alarm sensor to an external unit, for example, a central system unit or the control unit in another alarm sensor.
  • An aspect of the problem is to provide a control unit supporting a continuous surveillance of the functionality status of the system independent of dialling from an external unit.
  • Another aspect of the problem is to effectively be able to communicate an alarm or information to other surveyed objects, in a multiple family housing or in a group of related surveyed objects.
  • a further aspect of the problem is to minimise the maintenance and administration of a distributed alarm system.
  • Yet another aspect of the problem is to automatically indicate an interruption of the service or an interrupted communication link.
  • Yet another aim of the invention is to solve problem of providing an alarm apparatus that is easy to install, easy to clean, cheap to manufacture and to provide an alarm apparatus fulfilling the requirements of smoke detection.
  • control unit for use in an alarm system.
  • the control unit is communicatively coupled to at least one sensor by means of a communication interface.
  • the control unit is arranged to be communicatively connected to an external unit by means of a communication network e.g. a packet based network such as Internet.
  • the control unit is characterised in that it is arranged to continuously send status messages based on status info ⁇ nation from the sensor to the external unit and arranged to continuously poll the external unit to check if the external unit comprises new information to be retrieved.
  • control unit sends a message independently of a possible alarm or independently of a request from an external unit.
  • control unit may retrieve this information and may thus take necessary measures, such as activate or deactivate a sensor.
  • control unit does not need to comprise any specialised means, such as a means for remote control via a second communication network, to provide remote control to a user.
  • the invention refers further to an alarm unit comprising said control unit, said sensor and said communication interface and to an alarm unit comprising said control unit and communicatively connected to said sensor.
  • the invention refers further to a combined smoke- and IR-detector, i.e., a detector having a smoke sensor to detect smoke from a fire and having an IR-sensor to detect movements.
  • the detector may thereby emit both fire alarm and burglary alarm.
  • the smoke sensor and the IR-sensor are mounted on a printed circuit card, wherein said sensors are arranged on different sides of the printed circuit card.
  • the components are arranged to permit a 360° free inlet of smoke/gas and at the same time to provide a free view for the IR- sensor.
  • Fig. la shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. lb shows a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 2 shows a schematic flow chart of a control method in an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 3 shows examples of different alarm profiles
  • Fig. 4 shows a schematic flowchart of a control method and a control program flow according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 5 shows a schematic flowchart exemplifying method steps for managing sensor signals from a smoke detector
  • Fig. 6 shows a schematic flowchart of a control method and a control program flow for managing heartbeat messages according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 7 shows a schematic flowchart of method steps for sending and retrieving data
  • Fig. 8 shows a schematic block diagram of how the alarm unit may be connected to an external unit
  • Figure 9a shows a schematic drawing of a combined smoke- and IR-sensor
  • Fig. 9b shows schematically a cross-section of an embodiment of an combined smoke- and IR-sensor
  • Fig. 10 shows schematically a cross-section of another embodiment of an combined smoke- and IR-sensor.
  • the control unit comprises a data processing unit 2 for example a general data processor or signal processor, herein also called CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory unit connected to the processor.
  • the memory unit comprises a RAM memory and a Flash memory but another type of memory could also be used.
  • the Flash memory is used as a software memory and provides for example remotely loading of software.
  • the processor 2 is further connected to means for communication 7 providing communication with a communication network, such as data communication network or telecommunication network, for example in the shape of an Ethernet transiever/transceiver.
  • the processor 2 is further connected to one or several detectors or sensors or a siren.
  • Fig. la shows for example a smoke detector 14, a movement detector having an IR-sensor 16, and a siren 18 comprising a sound generator and a loud speaker to be able to directly emit a sound alarm to the surroundings of the alarm unit.
  • the siren 18 could be externally arranged to the detectors 14,16.
  • an embodiment of the invention comprises a sound generator (not shown) and/or a light generator (not shown) indicating the status of the alarm unit to a subscriber.
  • the status of the alarm unit may for example be on or off.
  • the alarm unit has in another embodiment indication means indicating if an alarm sensor (14,16) is on or off.
  • a remote control unit 20 is by means of an communication interface 10, e.g. a serial I/O interface 10, communicatively connected to the processor 2 to provide wireless short distance control and setting of the alarm unit for a user.
  • the remote control exists primarily to facilitate the setting of a sensor 14,16 placed in a place difficult to access, for example in a ceiling of a premise, but may also be used to turn off or turn on an alarm, e.g. to change the alarm profile.
  • the shown embodiment comprises further a communication interface to home electronics, such as an IR transmitter/receiver 22.
  • a stereo equipment may be communicatively connected to the control unit so that a radio starts when the owner enters his house and turns off the burglary alarm.
  • Preferable embodiments of the invention comprise further an indicator visually displaying the status of the alarm unit, e.g., indicating the activated alarm profile.
  • alarm profiles are shown in fig. 3.
  • the alarm unit is also provided with an energy supply 24, preferably a battery.
  • the energy supply comprises an exchangeable main battery and a rechargeable battery as a substitute energy source when the main battery runs out.
  • the communication interface 8 comprises means for wireless communication between a sensor and siren unit 15 and the data processing unit 2 by means of, e.g., radio waves or blue tooth technique.
  • the sensor and siren unit 15 also comprises a data processing unit such as a microprocessor (not shown), wherein parts of the software, controlling the periodically transferring and possibly also retrieving of signals, are comprised in this unit.
  • the sensors 14,16 and the siren 18 may be wireless or wired connected to the not shown processing unit comprised in the sensor and siren unit 15.
  • the sensor and siren unit 15 may be easily installed in for example the ceiling of a room in a premise and a separate alarm unit comprising the control unit, the memory, communication interfaces and the remote control unit 20, may be arranged in another place of the premises.
  • a user may install a plurality of sensor and siren units 15 in different rooms of the premises, which sensor and siren units 15 are communicatively coupled to the separate alarm unit by means of the communication interface 8.
  • a further embodiment of the invention comprise a camera for camera surveillance or a base station for wireless communication with other electronic or optic equipment, for example home electronics or a cellular phone.
  • the camera or the base station is communicatively connected to the processor.
  • An alarm unit is in function connected to a communication network, such as a package based network, e.g., Internet.
  • a communication network such as a package based network, e.g., Internet.
  • a network having characteristics such that the unit may be constantly connected for communication with an external unit, for example an external alarm server, sometimes also called a central alarm server.
  • the communication occurs preferably without a special procedure for establishing a connection before each occasion of communication.
  • the processor 2 is controlled by program units preferably prestored in the memory unit or by programs transferred to the alarm unit by means of the communication unit.
  • program units or parts of the program units may be realised as hardware components comprised in the alarm unit.
  • a control program comprises program units achieving any or combinations of the following functions or method steps:
  • the control unit sends a first status message to a predetermined external unit, which status message gives the working capacity of the alarm unit, i.e., a kind of heartbeat message giving that the alarm unit is working, i.e., is functioning and has no interruptions of the service.
  • a status message received at the external unit indicates that the communication connection is intact.
  • the control unit polls one or several external units to check if there exists information to be retrieved and possibly stored by the alarm unit.
  • the control unit directly sends a fire message to one or several pre-selected external units, for example a central system unit or another alarm unit. Further, the control unit activates a preselected sound by means of the siren indicating that the fire alarm is triggered.
  • the control unit directly sends a burglary message to one or several pre-selected external units, for example a central system unit or another alarm unit.
  • a pre- selected sound as a burglary alarm may by means of the siren be turned on or activated after a presetable time.
  • the control unit activates a pre-selected turning off sound or light indicating the alarm or alarm sensor is turned off or deactivated.
  • the control unit activates a preselected turning on sound or light indicating that the alarm or alarm sensor is turned on or activated.
  • control unit may activate a pre-selected sound associated to the selected alarm profile and thereby indicating the selected alarm profile.
  • the control unit activates a pre-selected sound signal indicating the need of changing the battery.
  • the change of energy supply from the main battery to the substitute battery is instead indicated and an indication signal indicating the battery change, is activated by the control unit.
  • Fig. 2 shows a schematic block diagram of a control method and a control program flow according to one embodiment of the invention. The order of the steps may in different embodiments of the invention be different from the order described in the figure.
  • a first flow loop comprises the steps: - 30 start;
  • a flow loop for actions or measures to be taken at a received detector signal comprises the steps (cf. fig. 2):
  • a flow loop for cancelling an alarm comprises the steps (cf. fig. 2):
  • step 52 if alarm is triggered, go to step 52 else go to step 54; - 52 turn off the activated siren;
  • a flow loop for turning on an alarm comprises the steps (cf. fig. 2):
  • step 60 - 58 if turn on command received, go to step 60 else no measure; - 60 send turn on message to a pre-selected external unit;
  • Fig. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of a control method and a control r program flow according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • the order of the steps may in different embodiments be different from the order described in the figure.
  • a sensor signal is transmitted from a sensor to the external alarm server.
  • the alarm server checks in the step 1004, which one of the alarm profiles that is activated for the current sensor, if the sensor according to the profile is shut off no measure is taken 1006. If on the other hand the sensor is activated, at least one timer is started 1008, wherein one timer is arranged in the alarm server and another timer may be arranged in connection to the sensor. A subscriber/user has then a certain time period to cancel an alarm, which is checked in step 1010.
  • the subscriber has in this embodiment two alternatives to shut down or cancel the alarm.
  • the alarm may be cancelled by means of e.g. a remote control or a stationary check unit arranged within the surveyed area, wherein the cancelling is performed via the sensor according to the steps 1012-1018.
  • the alarm may be cancelled by means of an Internet application, e.g. by means of a WAP telephone or by a normal telephone with e.g. DTMF-signalling (DTMF, Dual- Tone Multi Frequency), wherein the cancelling is performed via the external alarm server according to the steps 1020-1026.
  • DTMF Dual- Tone Multi Frequency
  • a cancelling signal is received by the sensor, which in the step 1014 transmits the signal to the alarm server.
  • the alarm is cancelled in both the sensor and the alarm server and in the step 1018 the timers are reset.
  • a subscriber may cancel the alarm via the alarm server, wherein the alarm server in the steps 1020 and 1022 receives and distributes, respectively, the cancelling signal further to the sensor.
  • the sensor may also retrieve this information from the alarm server at the next regular heartbeat message when the alarm unit polls the alarm server.
  • the alarm is turned off in both the sensor and the alarm server and in the step 1026 the timers are finally reset.
  • a siren starts 1032 to sound within the surveyed area, and the alarm server distributes in step 1034 the alarm further to an alarm receiver according to the distribution list defined by the subscriber.
  • a slow subscriber who does not manage to cancel the alarm within the predetermined time period may however in the step 1036 cancel the alarm according to the steps 1012-1018 or 1020-1026 as described above.
  • the siren in step 1040 is also cancelled or stopped and the alarm distribution is interrupted in step 1042.
  • the alarm distribution is continued in the step 1046 and the siren continues to sound 1048. This is for example what happens when a burglar breaks into an alarmed house and triggers an alarm. Thus, the burglar may not cancel the triggered alarm by sabotage 1050, e.g. by cutting off an alarm cable, instead the alarm distribution continues 1052.
  • FIG 5 a schematic flow chart is shown, exemplifying the methods steps for managing the sensor signals from a smoke detector, wherein:
  • - 2010 has a predefined time period, e.g. 3 minutes, lapsed? If no go to step 2006, if yes go to step 2012; - 2012 turn off the siren; and
  • step 2014 has the alarm been confirmed by any alarm receiver? If no go to step 2014, if yes go to step 2002. .
  • Figure 6 shows a schematic flow chart for the control method and the control program flow, for managing the periodical signals, the so called heartbeat messages, which are sent from a sensor or an alarm unit to the alarm server according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • the order of the steps may in different embodiments be different from the one shown in the figure 6 and described below:
  • - 3100 send a heartbeat message to a pre-selected external unit, e.g. an external alarm server; - 3102 detects the external unit a heartbeat message?;
  • a pre-selected external unit e.g. an external alarm server
  • the external unit sends a status request
  • the external unit does not need to send a status request according to step 3106 above, since it is possible to draw the conclusion that the alarm unit is out of order if the external unit does not detect a heartbeat message.
  • a fault in a network e.g. a general operation failure, if heartbeat messages from a plurality of alarm units fail to appear.
  • the alarm unit according to the present invention may easily be connected. to a network connection of a flat, e.g., to a broadband connection.
  • the user may by means of an Internet connection log into a web site of an alarm administrator and give the specific identity number of the alarm unit, whereby the administrator may identify the current alarm unit. Further, a user may give user specific information such as name, address, telephone number, cellular phone number etc. The user may further give, which alarm profiles she/he desires. As described above, an alarm profile can be out and then may e.g. all the alarm sensors be activated, and another can be home and then may e.g. only the fire alarm be activated. A user may change between different alarm profiles e.g. by means of a remote control directly communicating with the alarm unit. Further, the user may change between the alarm profiles by means of an abbreviated number of a cellular phone or via the web site of the administrator.
  • control unit is provided with functions to poll the server to check if there is information to be retrieved and sent to the alarm unit.
  • changes made by a user in e.g. the alarm profiles on the web site of the administrator, will be retrieved by the alarm unit by means of the control unit, which may take necessary measures, such as turning on or off a sensor.
  • Figure 7 shows a schematic flowchart of the method steps for sending and retrieving data using an embodiment of the alarm unit according to the present invention.
  • the method steps comprise the use of for example a cipher system, the method. comprises the steps of:
  • an Internet connection e.g., a broadband connection, possible by means of a wired connection, such as a cable, or a wireless connection, such as radio communication;
  • an external unit e.g. a global accessible unit, by means of a prestored address or IP -number and possible also sending the serial number of the alarm unit to the global accessible unit;
  • - 710 establishing an encrypted two-way communication between the alarm unit and the external unit by means of a system for secure transfer of data, e.g. a cipher system;
  • - 714 polling the external unit to check if new information, e.g. changes in an alarm profile, is to be retrieved from the external unit to the alarm unit; - 716 carrying out changes according to the retrieved information or achieved commands; and
  • the unit is arranged in for example a ceiling in step 700 and connected to an information network, such as Internet, in step 702 and to a power supply in step 704.
  • the sensor may be arranged in a sensor and siren unit 15, which may be mounted in the ceiling and the control unit or the separate alarm unit may be arranged at another place close to the network connection, whereby the control unit is communicatively coupled to the sensor and siren unit 15 by means of a wireless communication connection.
  • the network connection could either be established by means of a wired or wireless connection to e.g. a broadband network.
  • a predefined address or IP-number to an external unit, e.g.
  • an external server is called in step 706, by means of a calling means comprised in the alarm unit.
  • the external unit is called automatically and thus no extra programming or configuration is needed during the installation.
  • the predefined address or IP-number of the external unit is for example stored in a storing means comprised in the alarm unit.
  • the external unit is a global accessible unit and the connection is preferably established automatically at installation of the alarm unit. Thus, no extra programming or configuration is needed during the installation.
  • the alarm unit may from the global accessible unit retrieve the address or IP-number of another external unit that is more closely located to the alarm unit. In this case, identification of the country in which the alarm unit is placed is for example done by means of the serial number of the alarm unit.
  • an alarm units having a serial number between 1 and 100 000 may be located in Sweden and alarm units having the serial numbers between 100 001 and 200 000 may be located in the United states.
  • the alarm unit of the subscriber has a prestored address to a global accessible unit in United States and a serial number giving that the alarm unit is located in Sweden
  • the alarm unit may instead retrieve an address of an external unit in Sweden from the global accessible unit. This since the global accessible unit identifies the serial number of the alarm unit and thus may identify a more closely located external unit.
  • the step 708 described above may be omitted since it is possible to preprogram a predetermined address into the alarm units, for example may the address www.alerti-se.com be preprogrammed into alarm units to be used in Sweden and the address www.alerti-usa.com into alarm units to be used in the United States of America.
  • a connection between the external unit and the alarm unit is established in step 710 using the prestored address in the alarm unit or the address retrieved from the global accessible.
  • the established connection is an encrypted two-way communication connection between the alarm unit and the external unit by means of e.g. cipher system.
  • the alarm unit may send information such as alarm status, operation status, heartbeat message, and possible also information about a change in an alarm profile to the external unit.
  • the alarm unit polls the external unit to check if new data or information, e.g. changes in an alarm profile, is to be retrieved from the external unit to the alarm unit.
  • the alarm unit takes a suitable measure according to the retrieved information, e.g., carries out the changes according to the retrieved information or achieved commands.
  • the steps are repeated from step 712.
  • the polling functionality of the alarm unit is preferable since it provides a simple way of retrieving information from the external unit to the alarm unit. This since it is not straightforward to transfer information from an external unit to an alarm unit since the IP address of the alarm unit may vary continuously or since the alarm unit may be located behind a so-called firewall.
  • the external unit continuously updates a memory unit, e.g. a connected database or another kind of data storage, with the received information and activates an alarm distribution if an alarm has been received from the alarm unit.
  • a memory unit e.g. a connected database or another kind of data storage
  • FIG 8 shows a schematic example of how the alarm unit 8002 may be communicatively connected to an external unit 8004 by means of an Internet connection 8006.
  • the Internet connection 8006 could either be established by means of a wired communication link, such as a communication cable, or by means of a wireless communication link, such as a radio based communication link.
  • the external unit 8004, e.g. a server may comprise a web interface, a telecommunication interface and a mobile communication interface.
  • the external unit 8004 may be connected to a memory unit 8008, e.g., a database, comprising the user defined user accounts and the serial number of the alarm units 8002.
  • the user accounts preferably comprise user information such as the identity of the user/subscriber, the ala ⁇ n profiles defined by the user and the way of alarm distribution defined by the user.
  • the present invention refers also to a combined smoke- and IR-detector, i.e., a detector having a smoke sensor to detect smoke from a fire and having an IR- sensor to detect movements of for example a burglar.
  • the detector may thereby emit both fire alarm and burglary alarm.
  • the components are arranged to permit a 360° free inlet for smoke and gas and at the same time a free view for the IR-sensor.
  • a smoke detector has the disadvantage that the smoke sensor lid needs to be cleaned from dust at regular intervals. This is usually done by removing the smoke sensor lid from the sensor chamber and change the smoke sensor lid or clean it.
  • Another problem with prior art is that it is not possible to easily clean or exchange the smoke sensor lid since the smoke sensor is arranged at the IR-sensor as an integrated unit.
  • the invention solves the problems by mounting the components on a printed circuit card having the two sensors on opposite side of the card. Usually, the smoke sensor is mounted on top of the card and the IR-sensor on the underside of the card.
  • the detector has an upper part arranged to be attached to a ceiling and a lower part in which the printed circuit card with all the components is arranged.
  • the upper part is arranged to be attached to the ceiling by means of a magnet or another fastening means providing an easy mounting of the detector.
  • a magnet for attaching the detector to the ceiling, the adjustment of the IR- sensor is more easily achieved.
  • the detector is mounted at the ceiling of a premise it is easy to rotate the detector in the horizontal plane.
  • the IR- sensor may be directed towards a certain area, e.g. towards a door, an article of . value or a passage a burglar has to pass when breaking into the premise. Further, the cleaning of the smoke sensor is also more easily achieved since it is easy to detach the detector from the ceiling.
  • the lower part is attached to the upper part by means of for example hooks to form an air gap between the upper part and the lower part.
  • the lower part and the upper part are manufactured as an integrated unit in such a way that an air gap is formed between the upper part and the lower part or in such a way that the smoke sensor has a free inlet for gas over 360°.
  • the IR-sensor may be mounted on a breakable part of the printed circuit card so that the IR-sensor may be bent down to have free view.
  • Figure 9a shows a schematic drawing of a combined smoke- and IR-detector, comprising a smoke sensor 9004 arranged under a removable cover, i.e. a removable smoke sensor lid.
  • the detector comprises further an IR-sensor 9006 and an IR- mirror reflecting infrared radiation towards the IR-sensor.
  • the smoke sensor 9004 and the IR-sensor 9008 are mounted on opposite sides of a printed circuit card 9002.
  • the drawing illustrates further that the smoke detector 9004 has a free inlet for smoke or gas permitting a 360° free inlet for smoke or gas.
  • the 360° free inlet of the smoke sensor is not provided by the prior art wherein the smoke-sensor and the IR- sensor often are arranged side by side, and wherein the IR-sensor thus block the view of the smoke sensor.
  • Figure 9b shows schematically a cross-section of an embodiment of a combined smoke- and IR-sensor.
  • the invention refers to a combined smoke- and IR-detector having a smoke sensor and an IR-sensor, respectively, and the belonging electronic components such as loud speaker and a lamp to emit alarm and a power source, generally a battery.
  • the components are previously known and will not be described in more 5 detail.
  • the smoke sensor shall have a free inlet for gases over the entire circumference of 360°. It is also desirable that the IR-sensor has free view to detect movements. At mounting in the ceiling the view should be 360° in a horizontal plane and also all angles from straight down to horizontal, that is, mainly
  • the detector comprise an attachment plate 9001 generally arranged to be attached to a ceiling.
  • the attachment plate 9001 generally arranged to be attached to a ceiling.
  • the functional parts of the detector are attached to a printed circuit card 9002.
  • the components are placed under a lid 9003.
  • the printed circuit card 9002 is attached to a house 9005 constituting the lower part of the detector. Only the smoke sensor 9004 and the IR-sensor 9006 of the detector components are denoted by numerals, while the rest of the components only are 0 illustrated schematically.
  • the smoke sensor 9004 is arranged on top of the printed circuit card 9002.
  • the lower part of the detector is attached at the upper part by means of hooks 9010 to form an air gap 9011 between the upper part and the lower part.
  • the air gap is only broken by the hooks 9010, which hooks have a minor 5 extension in the direction of the circumference.
  • the number of hooks may vary from 3 and more to provide a suitable stability of the arrangement.
  • the IR-sensor 9006 is mounted on the underside of the printed circuit card 9002 and placed on the inside of a protective IR-house 9007 permeable to IR- radiation.
  • a circular light disc 9009 contributes to diverge the light towards the IR-
  • the IR-sensor should be arranged at a distance from the printed circuit card 9002 and under its plane at ceiling mounting. According to the invention this is achieved by placing the IR-sensor 9006 on a breakable part, e.g. breakable by means of a perforation (not shown), of the printed circuit card. At manufacture of the detector, the IR-sensor is thus broken off from 5 the printed circuit card and is bent down or is hung down. The IR-sensor 9006 hangs then only in its connection 9008 at the printed circuit card.
  • the connections are suitably a ribbon cable to provide enough mechanical stability.
  • FIG 10 shows schematically a cross-section of another embodiment of a combined smoke- and IR-detector, wherein a smoke sensor 1004 and an IR-sensor 1006 are attached on opposite sides of a printed circuit card 1002.
  • the smoke sensor 1004 is arranged on top of the printed circuit card 1002 and the IR-sensor 1006 on the underside of the printed circuit card 1002.
  • the arrangement of the smoke sensor 1004 according to this embodiment provides a free inlet for gases over the entire circumference of 360°.
  • This arrangement of the smoke sensor 1004 provides also to facilitate the cleaning of the smoke sensor 1004 or the exchange of the smoke sensor 1004, since it easy to reach the smoke sensor 1004 when the detector is detached from the ceiling.
  • the IR-sensor 1006 is placed under a protective IR-housing 1007 permeable to IR-radiation. As described above, the IR-sensor 1006 is placed on a breakable part of the printed circuit card 1002, which is broken off and the IR-sensor 1006 is bent down or hung down in its connection 1008 at the printed circuit card 1002.
  • An embodiment of the present invention comprises also a movement sensor (not shown in the figures), for example a micro mechanical component, detecting changes in its position arising from a movement of the detector. When activated the movement sensor detects thus if some one is moving the detector from its position and thus tries to destroy or manipulate the detector.
  • a movement sensor for example a micro mechanical component

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Abstract

The invention refers to a control unit, communicatively connected to at least one sensor by means of a communication interface, for use in a security system. The control unit is connectable to an external unit by means of a communication network. Further the control unit is arranged to continuously send status messages based on status information from the sensor to the external unit and arranged to continuously poll the external unit to check if the external unit comprises information to be retrieved. Further, the invention refers to a combined smoke- and IR-detector, which may emit both fire alarm and burglary alarm. The sensors are mounted on a printed circuit card and arranged on different sides of the printed circuit card. The sensors are arranged to permit a 360° free inlet of smoke/gas and at the same time to provide a free view for the IR-sensor.

Description

ALARM APPARATUS
Technical field of the invention
The present invention refers to a control unit for at least one sensor for use in a security system. Further the invention refers to an alarm unit, a method and a computer program product for use in the security system.
Background of the invention
In the society of today, it has become more and more important to improve the security in premises by means of different kinds of surveillance system and alarm systems. Most of the surveillance systems are dedicated to a certain type of surveillance. Usually, an alarm sensor reacts on e.g., fire or a burglary and transmits an alarm signal to an alarm central, which in turn sends the fire brigade or a security guard to check and measure the alarm cause. In later developments of such alarm systems, functions for remotely checking and controlling the alarm unit have been introduced, partly to be able to decide the functioning capability of the alarm unit and partly to perform different kinds of settings, e.g., setting of the sensor sensitivity, at a distance.
Usually, the alarm unit is installed by a professional performing the installation on the actual place where the alarm unit is to be placed. Further, the professional has to configure or program the alarm unit to enable communication between the alarm unit and an external unit, such as an external alarm central. Thus the installation is not simple to perform for a layman who has bought the alarm unit. More simplified equipment are available today which a layman or a user may install themselves. However, these simpler equipment have either a poor quality regarding for example the working reliability or they still need a configuration on place to be connected to an external unit by means of a communication link e.g. telephone line. Further, a personal identification number (PIN) usually has to be used to get access to the communication link. Internet and IP (Internet protocol) based networks provides new kinds of services and products, which all may share a common infrastructure for communication. Internet provides a plurality of protocols for a simple communication between different units and services. It is for example possible to talk on the telephone by means of IP-telecommunication and to surf the web, simultaneously, without the need of double communication network as the case is in ordinary telecommunication networks.
However, the Internet is often questioned from a security point of view due to the increasing amount of trespasses by hackers from all around the world. Prior art
The patent document GB 2 325 548 describes a security alarm system having a control unit coupled to a detector and arranged to emit an alarm signal. Further, this control unit is provided with a server for data communication by means of a circuit switched telephone based data network. By means of this server, status data is transferred from the alarm system and by means of which server the alarm system also may be reconfigurated based on instructions from the network user. The shown system according to the prior art is based on a dialled telephone connection and communicates with a user only at the establishment of the connection and is controlled by commands and instructions from the user.
The Swedish patent SE 512 589 describes a method for checking the communication between an alarm unit and an alarm central in an alarm and surveillance system. The method comprises the sending of an identification message from the alarm unit to an identification unit coupled to the alarm central. Further, the method comprises the utilisation of circuit switched technique, thus when an identification message does not reach the identification unit the transmission from the alarm unit has to be interrupted before the identification unit is able to send a check message to the alarm unit. The alarm unit is thus inactive when this check is performed. The patent US 6,067,346 discloses a method and a system for providing redundancy for security systems served by the public switched telephone network (PSTN). Upon detection of inoperability of a telecommunication line serving the system via the PSTN a cable modem extends an alert message to a security monitoring service via a packet data network. Thus the redundancy provided by the packet data network provides an extra measure of security for the occupants of the secured premise..
The patent document GB 2 313 458 describes a supervised alarm reporting system comprising a controlling interface unit linked to one or more event sensors associated with a premise. The controlling interface unit communicates with a central unit for monitoring the sensors using wired communication lines. In use, the controlling interface unit transmits periodic test signals to the central unit so that the latter is apprised of the status of the communication link.
However, none of the documents according to prior art disclose a control unit that periodically transmits status signals to an external unit giving the status of the sensors and that periodically polls the external unit to check if the external unit comprises information or data to be retrieved and possibly stored by the control unit.
Object of the invention
The general aim of the invention is to solve the problem of providing remote managing of an Internet connectable alarm apparatus in a easy way that do not require a specialised equipment in the alarm apparatus.
An aspect of the problem is to provide access, e.g. find and reach, to an Internet connectable alarm unit. Another aspect of the problem is to managing an Internet connectable alarm apparatus in a safe way.
Yet another aspect of the problem is to provide an Internet connectable alarm apparatus that is easy to install for a layman and that does not require configuration on place. Another aim of the invention is to solve the problem of providing a control unit for an alarm sensor in a distributed alarm system. The control unit provides a continuous communication from an alarm sensor to an external unit, for example, a central system unit or the control unit in another alarm sensor.
An aspect of the problem is to provide a control unit supporting a continuous surveillance of the functionality status of the system independent of dialling from an external unit.
Another aspect of the problem is to effectively be able to communicate an alarm or information to other surveyed objects, in a multiple family housing or in a group of related surveyed objects. A further aspect of the problem is to minimise the maintenance and administration of a distributed alarm system.
Yet another aspect of the problem is to automatically indicate an interruption of the service or an interrupted communication link.
Yet another aim of the invention is to solve problem of providing an alarm apparatus that is easy to install, easy to clean, cheap to manufacture and to provide an alarm apparatus fulfilling the requirements of smoke detection.
Brief description of the invention
The problem and aspects of the problem are solved by means of a control unit for use in an alarm system. The control unit is communicatively coupled to at least one sensor by means of a communication interface. The control unit is arranged to be communicatively connected to an external unit by means of a communication network e.g. a packet based network such as Internet. The control unit is characterised in that it is arranged to continuously send status messages based on status infoπnation from the sensor to the external unit and arranged to continuously poll the external unit to check if the external unit comprises new information to be retrieved.
Different from prior art, wherein messages are sent at alarms or on commands from the external receiver unit, the control unit according to the invention sends a message independently of a possible alarm or independently of a request from an external unit.
Further, the continuous polling of the external unit by the control unit implies that a sensor connected to the control unit according to the invention may be remotely controlled in a simple way. If for example a change in an alarm profile of a user is performed at a web site of an administrator, the control unit may retrieve this information and may thus take necessary measures, such as activate or deactivate a sensor. Thus, the control unit does not need to comprise any specialised means, such as a means for remote control via a second communication network, to provide remote control to a user.
It is not a straightforward procedure to transfer information or data from an external unit to a control unit since the IP address of the control unit may vary continuously or since the control unit may be located behind a so-called firewall. The polling functionality of the control unit is thus a simple way of retrieving information from the external unit to the control unit.
The invention refers further to an alarm unit comprising said control unit, said sensor and said communication interface and to an alarm unit comprising said control unit and communicatively connected to said sensor.
The invention refers further to a combined smoke- and IR-detector, i.e., a detector having a smoke sensor to detect smoke from a fire and having an IR-sensor to detect movements. The detector may thereby emit both fire alarm and burglary alarm. According to the invention the smoke sensor and the IR-sensor are mounted on a printed circuit card, wherein said sensors are arranged on different sides of the printed circuit card. In the detector the components are arranged to permit a 360° free inlet of smoke/gas and at the same time to provide a free view for the IR- sensor.
Brief description of the drawings
The invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which
Fig. la shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the invention;
Fig. lb shows a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 2 shows a schematic flow chart of a control method in an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 3 shows examples of different alarm profiles;
Fig. 4 shows a schematic flowchart of a control method and a control program flow according to an embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 5 shows a schematic flowchart exemplifying method steps for managing sensor signals from a smoke detector; Fig. 6 shows a schematic flowchart of a control method and a control program flow for managing heartbeat messages according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 7 shows a schematic flowchart of method steps for sending and retrieving data; Fig. 8 shows a schematic block diagram of how the alarm unit may be connected to an external unit;
Figure 9a shows a schematic drawing of a combined smoke- and IR-sensor; Fig. 9b shows schematically a cross-section of an embodiment of an combined smoke- and IR-sensor; and
Fig. 10 shows schematically a cross-section of another embodiment of an combined smoke- and IR-sensor.
Detailed description of embodiments
In the embodiment of the invention according to Fig. 1, a control unit to an alarm sensor 14,16 in an alarm unit is shown. The control unit comprises a data processing unit 2 for example a general data processor or signal processor, herein also called CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory unit connected to the processor. In this exemplifying embodiment, the memory unit comprises a RAM memory and a Flash memory but another type of memory could also be used. In this embodiment the Flash memory is used as a software memory and provides for example remotely loading of software. The processor 2 is further connected to means for communication 7 providing communication with a communication network, such as data communication network or telecommunication network, for example in the shape of an Ethernet transiever/transceiver. By means of an I/O ' interface 8, the processor 2 is further connected to one or several detectors or sensors or a siren. Fig. la shows for example a smoke detector 14, a movement detector having an IR-sensor 16, and a siren 18 comprising a sound generator and a loud speaker to be able to directly emit a sound alarm to the surroundings of the alarm unit. It should be understood that the siren 18 could be externally arranged to the detectors 14,16. Further, an embodiment of the invention comprises a sound generator (not shown) and/or a light generator (not shown) indicating the status of the alarm unit to a subscriber. The status of the alarm unit may for example be on or off. The alarm unit has in another embodiment indication means indicating if an alarm sensor (14,16) is on or off.
In the embodiment of the invention shown in fig. la, a remote control unit 20 is by means of an communication interface 10, e.g. a serial I/O interface 10, communicatively connected to the processor 2 to provide wireless short distance control and setting of the alarm unit for a user. The remote control exists primarily to facilitate the setting of a sensor 14,16 placed in a place difficult to access, for example in a ceiling of a premise, but may also be used to turn off or turn on an alarm, e.g. to change the alarm profile. The shown embodiment comprises further a communication interface to home electronics, such as an IR transmitter/receiver 22. Thus, a stereo equipment may be communicatively connected to the control unit so that a radio starts when the owner enters his house and turns off the burglary alarm. Preferable embodiments of the invention comprise further an indicator visually displaying the status of the alarm unit, e.g., indicating the activated alarm profile. Examples of alarm profiles are shown in fig. 3. For example may an alarm profile for a subscriber be home, wherein the present subscriber wants the safety alarm and the fire alarm to be on and all the other sensors off. Another alarm profile may be out and then all the sensors except for e.g. the safety alarm are on. The alarm unit is also provided with an energy supply 24, preferably a battery. In an embodiment the energy supply comprises an exchangeable main battery and a rechargeable battery as a substitute energy source when the main battery runs out.
In another embodiment of the invention, shown in fig. lb, the communication interface 8 comprises means for wireless communication between a sensor and siren unit 15 and the data processing unit 2 by means of, e.g., radio waves or blue tooth technique. In this embodiment the sensor and siren unit 15 also comprises a data processing unit such as a microprocessor (not shown), wherein parts of the software, controlling the periodically transferring and possibly also retrieving of signals, are comprised in this unit. In this embodiment the sensors 14,16 and the siren 18 may be wireless or wired connected to the not shown processing unit comprised in the sensor and siren unit 15. In this embodiment, the sensor and siren unit 15 may be easily installed in for example the ceiling of a room in a premise and a separate alarm unit comprising the control unit, the memory, communication interfaces and the remote control unit 20, may be arranged in another place of the premises. Thus, a user may install a plurality of sensor and siren units 15 in different rooms of the premises, which sensor and siren units 15 are communicatively coupled to the separate alarm unit by means of the communication interface 8.
A further embodiment of the invention comprise a camera for camera surveillance or a base station for wireless communication with other electronic or optic equipment, for example home electronics or a cellular phone. Preferably the camera or the base station is communicatively connected to the processor.
An alarm unit according to the invention is in function connected to a communication network, such as a package based network, e.g., Internet. Preferably to a network having characteristics such that the unit may be constantly connected for communication with an external unit, for example an external alarm server, sometimes also called a central alarm server. The communication occurs preferably without a special procedure for establishing a connection before each occasion of communication. 1
The processor 2 is controlled by program units preferably prestored in the memory unit or by programs transferred to the alarm unit by means of the communication unit. However, it should be understood that the program units or parts of the program units may be realised as hardware components comprised in the alarm unit. A control program comprises program units achieving any or combinations of the following functions or method steps:
- At predetermined intervals, the control unit sends a first status message to a predetermined external unit, which status message gives the working capacity of the alarm unit, i.e., a kind of heartbeat message giving that the alarm unit is working, i.e., is functioning and has no interruptions of the service. A status message received at the external unit indicates that the communication connection is intact. At absence of a heartbeat message the external unit can react on the interruption of the service or on the interrupted connection and thereby take necessary measures. - At predetermined points of time or occasions, the control unit polls one or several external units to check if there exists information to be retrieved and possibly stored by the alarm unit.
- At a signal from the smoke detector, the control unit directly sends a fire message to one or several pre-selected external units, for example a central system unit or another alarm unit. Further, the control unit activates a preselected sound by means of the siren indicating that the fire alarm is triggered.
- At burglary detection, for example by means of a motion detector, the control unit directly sends a burglary message to one or several pre-selected external units, for example a central system unit or another alarm unit. Further, a pre- selected sound as a burglary alarm may by means of the siren be turned on or activated after a presetable time.
- At turning off or shutting off an alarm or an alarm sensor, the control unit activates a pre-selected turning off sound or light indicating the alarm or alarm sensor is turned off or deactivated. - At turning on an alarm or an alarm sensor, the control unit activates a preselected turning on sound or light indicating that the alarm or alarm sensor is turned on or activated.
- Ability to receive and store different sound files, communication protocols, lists of address to external units and other control information. - At a change of alarm profile the control unit may activate a pre-selected sound associated to the selected alarm profile and thereby indicating the selected alarm profile.
- At low energy supply, for example at depleted battery, the control unit activates a pre-selected sound signal indicating the need of changing the battery. In an embodiment of the invention having a main battery and a substitute battery, the change of energy supply from the main battery to the substitute battery is instead indicated and an indication signal indicating the battery change, is activated by the control unit. Fig. 2 shows a schematic block diagram of a control method and a control program flow according to one embodiment of the invention. The order of the steps may in different embodiments of the invention be different from the order described in the figure.
A first flow loop comprises the steps: - 30 start;
- 32 send a heartbeat message to a pre-selected external unit;
- 34 a pre-selected time delay;
- back to step 32.
In this way the above mentioned function is achieved, i.e., the continuous surveillance of the function state of the alarm unit is supported based on signalling from the control unit. Further, possible interruption of service or interruptions in the communication connection is immediately detected within a predetermined interval of time dependent on the pre-selected time delay.
A flow loop for actions or measures to be taken at a received detector signal comprises the steps (cf. fig. 2):
- 36 if detector signal received, go to step 38 else no measure;
- 38 send alarm message to a pre-selected external unit;
- 40 if the sound signal is to be activated, go to step 42 else go to the final step 44;
- 42 activate, i.e. turn on, the siren; • - 44 end.
A flow loop for cancelling an alarm comprises the steps (cf. fig. 2):
- 46 if a turn off command is received, go to step 48 else no measure;
- 48 send turn off message to a pre-selected external unit;
- 50 if alarm is triggered, go to step 52 else go to step 54; - 52 turn off the activated siren;
- 54 activate turn off sound;
- 56 end.
A flow loop for turning on an alarm comprises the steps (cf. fig. 2):
- 58 if turn on command received, go to step 60 else no measure; - 60 send turn on message to a pre-selected external unit;
- 64 end.
Fig. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of a control method and a control r program flow according to an embodiment of the invention. The order of the steps may in different embodiments be different from the order described in the figure. In the step 1002 a sensor signal is transmitted from a sensor to the external alarm server. The alarm server checks in the step 1004, which one of the alarm profiles that is activated for the current sensor, if the sensor according to the profile is shut off no measure is taken 1006. If on the other hand the sensor is activated, at least one timer is started 1008, wherein one timer is arranged in the alarm server and another timer may be arranged in connection to the sensor. A subscriber/user has then a certain time period to cancel an alarm, which is checked in step 1010. The subscriber has in this embodiment two alternatives to shut down or cancel the alarm. Firstly, the alarm may be cancelled by means of e.g. a remote control or a stationary check unit arranged within the surveyed area, wherein the cancelling is performed via the sensor according to the steps 1012-1018. Secondly, the alarm may be cancelled by means of an Internet application, e.g. by means of a WAP telephone or by a normal telephone with e.g. DTMF-signalling (DTMF, Dual- Tone Multi Frequency), wherein the cancelling is performed via the external alarm server according to the steps 1020-1026.
In the steps 1012-1018, a cancelling signal is received by the sensor, which in the step 1014 transmits the signal to the alarm server. In the step 1016 the alarm is cancelled in both the sensor and the alarm server and in the step 1018 the timers are reset.
As already mentioned, a subscriber may cancel the alarm via the alarm server, wherein the alarm server in the steps 1020 and 1022 receives and distributes, respectively, the cancelling signal further to the sensor. However, when cancelling the alarm via the external unit, e.g. the alarm server, i.e. by means of the web or the telephone interface, the sensor may also retrieve this information from the alarm server at the next regular heartbeat message when the alarm unit polls the alarm server. In the step 1024, the alarm is turned off in both the sensor and the alarm server and in the step 1026 the timers are finally reset.
If the alarm is not cancelled within a predetermined time period, a siren starts 1032 to sound within the surveyed area, and the alarm server distributes in step 1034 the alarm further to an alarm receiver according to the distribution list defined by the subscriber.
A slow subscriber who does not manage to cancel the alarm within the predetermined time period may however in the step 1036 cancel the alarm according to the steps 1012-1018 or 1020-1026 as described above. When the cancelling is completed, the siren in step 1040 is also cancelled or stopped and the alarm distribution is interrupted in step 1042.
If no measure is taken 1044 the alarm distribution is continued in the step 1046 and the siren continues to sound 1048. This is for example what happens when a burglar breaks into an alarmed house and triggers an alarm. Thus, the burglar may not cancel the triggered alarm by sabotage 1050, e.g. by cutting off an alarm cable, instead the alarm distribution continues 1052.
In figure 5 a schematic flow chart is shown, exemplifying the methods steps for managing the sensor signals from a smoke detector, wherein:
- 2000 start;
- 2002 is smoke detected? If no go to step 200, if yes go to step 2004;
- 2004 send a sensor signal to an external alarm server indicating that smoke has been detected; - 2006 activate local siren;
- 2008 has the alarm been confirmed by any alarm receiver? If no go to step 2010, if yes turn off the siren and go to step 2002;
- 2010 has a predefined time period, e.g. 3 minutes, lapsed? If no go to step 2006, if yes go to step 2012; - 2012 turn off the siren; and
- 2014 has the alarm been confirmed by any alarm receiver? If no go to step 2014, if yes go to step 2002. .
Figure 6 shows a schematic flow chart for the control method and the control program flow, for managing the periodical signals, the so called heartbeat messages, which are sent from a sensor or an alarm unit to the alarm server according to one embodiment of the invention. The order of the steps may in different embodiments be different from the one shown in the figure 6 and described below:
- 3100 send a heartbeat message to a pre-selected external unit, e.g. an external alarm server; - 3102 detects the external unit a heartbeat message?;
- 3104 yes, the alarm unit is ok;
- 3106 no, the external unit sends a status request;
- 3108 a response from an alarm unit fails to appear;
- 3110 sabotage or an alarm unit failure; - 3112 start alarm distribution;
- 3114 responses from a plurality of alarm units fail to appear;
- 3116 operation failure;
- 3118 contact operation maintenance, central or local. However, the external unit does not need to send a status request according to step 3106 above, since it is possible to draw the conclusion that the alarm unit is out of order if the external unit does not detect a heartbeat message. However, as described above, by performing the steps 3106-3118 above it is possible to detect a fault in a network, e.g. a general operation failure, if heartbeat messages from a plurality of alarm units fail to appear. The alarm unit according to the present invention may easily be connected. to a network connection of a flat, e.g., to a broadband connection. Thereafter the user may by means of an Internet connection log into a web site of an alarm administrator and give the specific identity number of the alarm unit, whereby the administrator may identify the current alarm unit. Further, a user may give user specific information such as name, address, telephone number, cellular phone number etc. The user may further give, which alarm profiles she/he desires. As described above, an alarm profile can be out and then may e.g. all the alarm sensors be activated, and another can be home and then may e.g. only the fire alarm be activated. A user may change between different alarm profiles e.g. by means of a remote control directly communicating with the alarm unit. Further, the user may change between the alarm profiles by means of an abbreviated number of a cellular phone or via the web site of the administrator. As mentioned above, the control unit according to the invention is provided with functions to poll the server to check if there is information to be retrieved and sent to the alarm unit. Thus changes made by a user, in e.g. the alarm profiles on the web site of the administrator, will be retrieved by the alarm unit by means of the control unit, which may take necessary measures, such as turning on or off a sensor.
Figure 7 shows a schematic flowchart of the method steps for sending and retrieving data using an embodiment of the alarm unit according to the present invention. In this embodiment the method steps comprise the use of for example a cipher system, the method. comprises the steps of:
- 700 arranging the alarm unit at e.g. a ceiling;
- 702 connecting the alarm unit to an Internet connection, e.g., a broadband connection, possible by means of a wired connection, such as a cable, or a wireless connection, such as radio communication;
- 704 connecting a power source, either by means of an electricity supply system or by means of a battery;
- 706 calling an external unit, e.g. a global accessible unit, by means of a prestored address or IP -number and possible also sending the serial number of the alarm unit to the global accessible unit;
- 708 possibly retrieving information about an external unit to be used;
- 710 establishing an encrypted two-way communication between the alarm unit and the external unit by means of a system for secure transfer of data, e.g. a cipher system;
- 712 sending alarm status, operation status, heartbeat message, and possible also information about a change in an alarm profile;
- 714 polling the external unit to check if new information, e.g. changes in an alarm profile, is to be retrieved from the external unit to the alarm unit; - 716 carrying out changes according to the retrieved information or achieved commands; and
- 718 repeating from step 712.
Thus, at installation of the alarm unit, the unit is arranged in for example a ceiling in step 700 and connected to an information network, such as Internet, in step 702 and to a power supply in step 704. However, as described above, the sensor may be arranged in a sensor and siren unit 15, which may be mounted in the ceiling and the control unit or the separate alarm unit may be arranged at another place close to the network connection, whereby the control unit is communicatively coupled to the sensor and siren unit 15 by means of a wireless communication connection. The network connection could either be established by means of a wired or wireless connection to e.g. a broadband network. At start up of the alarm unit a predefined address or IP-number to an external unit, e.g. an external server, is called in step 706, by means of a calling means comprised in the alarm unit. Preferably, the external unit is called automatically and thus no extra programming or configuration is needed during the installation. The predefined address or IP-number of the external unit is for example stored in a storing means comprised in the alarm unit. In an embodiment of the invention, the external unit is a global accessible unit and the connection is preferably established automatically at installation of the alarm unit. Thus, no extra programming or configuration is needed during the installation. Further, in step 708 the alarm unit may from the global accessible unit retrieve the address or IP-number of another external unit that is more closely located to the alarm unit. In this case, identification of the country in which the alarm unit is placed is for example done by means of the serial number of the alarm unit. For example, an alarm units having a serial number between 1 and 100 000 may be located in Sweden and alarm units having the serial numbers between 100 001 and 200 000 may be located in the United states. Thus, if the alarm unit of the subscriber has a prestored address to a global accessible unit in United States and a serial number giving that the alarm unit is located in Sweden, the alarm unit may instead retrieve an address of an external unit in Sweden from the global accessible unit. This since the global accessible unit identifies the serial number of the alarm unit and thus may identify a more closely located external unit. However, the step 708 described above, may be omitted since it is possible to preprogram a predetermined address into the alarm units, for example may the address www.alerti-se.com be preprogrammed into alarm units to be used in Sweden and the address www.alerti-usa.com into alarm units to be used in the United States of America.
Thus, a connection between the external unit and the alarm unit is established in step 710 using the prestored address in the alarm unit or the address retrieved from the global accessible.
Preferably, the established connection is an encrypted two-way communication connection between the alarm unit and the external unit by means of e.g. cipher system. In step 712 the alarm unit may send information such as alarm status, operation status, heartbeat message, and possible also information about a change in an alarm profile to the external unit. Further, in step 714 the alarm unit polls the external unit to check if new data or information, e.g. changes in an alarm profile, is to be retrieved from the external unit to the alarm unit. In step 716 the alarm unit takes a suitable measure according to the retrieved information, e.g., carries out the changes according to the retrieved information or achieved commands. In step 718 the steps are repeated from step 712.
The polling functionality of the alarm unit is preferable since it provides a simple way of retrieving information from the external unit to the alarm unit. This since it is not straightforward to transfer information from an external unit to an alarm unit since the IP address of the alarm unit may vary continuously or since the alarm unit may be located behind a so-called firewall.
Further, the external unit continuously updates a memory unit, e.g. a connected database or another kind of data storage, with the received information and activates an alarm distribution if an alarm has been received from the alarm unit.
Figure 8 shows a schematic example of how the alarm unit 8002 may be communicatively connected to an external unit 8004 by means of an Internet connection 8006. The Internet connection 8006 could either be established by means of a wired communication link, such as a communication cable, or by means of a wireless communication link, such as a radio based communication link. The external unit 8004, e.g. a server may comprise a web interface, a telecommunication interface and a mobile communication interface. Further, the external unit 8004 may be connected to a memory unit 8008, e.g., a database, comprising the user defined user accounts and the serial number of the alarm units 8002. The user accounts preferably comprise user information such as the identity of the user/subscriber, the alaπn profiles defined by the user and the way of alarm distribution defined by the user.
The present invention refers also to a combined smoke- and IR-detector, i.e., a detector having a smoke sensor to detect smoke from a fire and having an IR- sensor to detect movements of for example a burglar. The detector may thereby emit both fire alarm and burglary alarm. In the detector, the components are arranged to permit a 360° free inlet for smoke and gas and at the same time a free view for the IR-sensor.
In the prior art for a combined smoke- and IR-detector there has been a problem to easily arrange the components not to disturb each other. Further, a smoke detector has the disadvantage that the smoke sensor lid needs to be cleaned from dust at regular intervals. This is usually done by removing the smoke sensor lid from the sensor chamber and change the smoke sensor lid or clean it. Another problem with prior art is that it is not possible to easily clean or exchange the smoke sensor lid since the smoke sensor is arranged at the IR-sensor as an integrated unit. The invention solves the problems by mounting the components on a printed circuit card having the two sensors on opposite side of the card. Usually, the smoke sensor is mounted on top of the card and the IR-sensor on the underside of the card. Preferably, the detector has an upper part arranged to be attached to a ceiling and a lower part in which the printed circuit card with all the components is arranged. The upper part is arranged to be attached to the ceiling by means of a magnet or another fastening means providing an easy mounting of the detector. By using a magnet for attaching the detector to the ceiling, the adjustment of the IR- sensor is more easily achieved. If for example the detector is mounted at the ceiling of a premise it is easy to rotate the detector in the horizontal plane. Thus, the IR- sensor may be directed towards a certain area, e.g. towards a door, an article of . value or a passage a burglar has to pass when breaking into the premise. Further, the cleaning of the smoke sensor is also more easily achieved since it is easy to detach the detector from the ceiling.
In one embodiment of the invention, the lower part is attached to the upper part by means of for example hooks to form an air gap between the upper part and the lower part. In another embodiment, the lower part and the upper part are manufactured as an integrated unit in such a way that an air gap is formed between the upper part and the lower part or in such a way that the smoke sensor has a free inlet for gas over 360°. The IR-sensor may be mounted on a breakable part of the printed circuit card so that the IR-sensor may be bent down to have free view.
Figure 9a shows a schematic drawing of a combined smoke- and IR-detector, comprising a smoke sensor 9004 arranged under a removable cover, i.e. a removable smoke sensor lid. The detector comprises further an IR-sensor 9006 and an IR- mirror reflecting infrared radiation towards the IR-sensor. The smoke sensor 9004 and the IR-sensor 9008 are mounted on opposite sides of a printed circuit card 9002. The drawing illustrates further that the smoke detector 9004 has a free inlet for smoke or gas permitting a 360° free inlet for smoke or gas. The 360° free inlet of the smoke sensor is not provided by the prior art wherein the smoke-sensor and the IR- sensor often are arranged side by side, and wherein the IR-sensor thus block the view of the smoke sensor.
Figure 9b shows schematically a cross-section of an embodiment of a combined smoke- and IR-sensor. The invention refers to a combined smoke- and IR-detector having a smoke sensor and an IR-sensor, respectively, and the belonging electronic components such as loud speaker and a lamp to emit alarm and a power source, generally a battery. The components are previously known and will not be described in more 5 detail.
According to the standards, the smoke sensor shall have a free inlet for gases over the entire circumference of 360°. It is also desirable that the IR-sensor has free view to detect movements. At mounting in the ceiling the view should be 360° in a horizontal plane and also all angles from straight down to horizontal, that is, mainly
10 the solid angle for half a sphere.
The present invention provides a combined smoke- and IR-detector fulfilling the requirements above thanks to a new and preferable arrangement of the components. With reference to the figure 9b, the detector comprise an attachment plate 9001 generally arranged to be attached to a ceiling. The attachment plate 9001
15. constitutes the upper part of the detector. The functional parts of the detector are attached to a printed circuit card 9002. The components are placed under a lid 9003. The printed circuit card 9002 is attached to a house 9005 constituting the lower part of the detector. Only the smoke sensor 9004 and the IR-sensor 9006 of the detector components are denoted by numerals, while the rest of the components only are 0 illustrated schematically.
At mounting at a ceiling the smoke sensor 9004 is arranged on top of the printed circuit card 9002. The lower part of the detector is attached at the upper part by means of hooks 9010 to form an air gap 9011 between the upper part and the lower part. The air gap is only broken by the hooks 9010, which hooks have a minor 5 extension in the direction of the circumference. The number of hooks may vary from 3 and more to provide a suitable stability of the arrangement.
The IR-sensor 9006 is mounted on the underside of the printed circuit card 9002 and placed on the inside of a protective IR-house 9007 permeable to IR- radiation. A circular light disc 9009 contributes to diverge the light towards the IR-
30 sensor 9006. To achieve better view the IR-sensor should be arranged at a distance from the printed circuit card 9002 and under its plane at ceiling mounting. According to the invention this is achieved by placing the IR-sensor 9006 on a breakable part, e.g. breakable by means of a perforation (not shown), of the printed circuit card. At manufacture of the detector, the IR-sensor is thus broken off from 5 the printed circuit card and is bent down or is hung down. The IR-sensor 9006 hangs then only in its connection 9008 at the printed circuit card. The connections are suitably a ribbon cable to provide enough mechanical stability.
Figure 10 shows schematically a cross-section of another embodiment of a combined smoke- and IR-detector, wherein a smoke sensor 1004 and an IR-sensor 1006 are attached on opposite sides of a printed circuit card 1002. At mounting at a ceiling, the smoke sensor 1004 is arranged on top of the printed circuit card 1002 and the IR-sensor 1006 on the underside of the printed circuit card 1002. The arrangement of the smoke sensor 1004 according to this embodiment provides a free inlet for gases over the entire circumference of 360°. This arrangement of the smoke sensor 1004 provides also to facilitate the cleaning of the smoke sensor 1004 or the exchange of the smoke sensor 1004, since it easy to reach the smoke sensor 1004 when the detector is detached from the ceiling. The IR-sensor 1006 is placed under a protective IR-housing 1007 permeable to IR-radiation. As described above, the IR-sensor 1006 is placed on a breakable part of the printed circuit card 1002, which is broken off and the IR-sensor 1006 is bent down or hung down in its connection 1008 at the printed circuit card 1002.
An embodiment of the present invention comprises also a movement sensor (not shown in the figures), for example a micro mechanical component, detecting changes in its position arising from a movement of the detector. When activated the movement sensor detects thus if some one is moving the detector from its position and thus tries to destroy or manipulate the detector.
Embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the figures. However, it should be understand that the arrangement and special embodiments of different components may be varied without falling apart from the scope of the invention, which is defined by the accompanying claims.

Claims

Claims
1. A control unit for use in an alarm system, communicatively connected to at least one sensor (14,16) by means of a communication interface (8), and connectable to an external unit by means of a communication network, characterised in that the control unit is arranged to continuously send status messages based oh status information from the sensor (14,16) to the external unit and arranged to continuously poll the external unit to check if the external unit comprises information to be retrieved.
2. The control unit according to claim 1, characterised in that the sensor (14,16) is coupled to the control unit by means of a wireless communication connection, e.g. by means of radio wave or bluetooth technique.
3. The control unit according to claim 1, characterised in that the sensor (14,16) is coupled to the control unit by means of a wired communication link.
4. The control unit according to claim 1, characterised in that the control unit is connectable to the communication network by means of a wireless communication link.
5. The control unit according to claim 1, characterised in that the control unit is connectable to the communication network by means of a wired communication link.
6. The control unit according to claim 1, characterised in that the control unit is connectable to the external unit by means of a package based network, such as Internet.
7. The control unit according to claim 1, characterised in that the control unit is arranged to establish an encrypted two-way communication with the external unit.
8. The control unit according to claim 1, characterised in that the control unit is arranged to retrieve information, such as a change of the activated alarm profile o changes in a user defined alarm profile, from the external unit.
9. The control unit according to claim 8, characterised in that the control unit takes a measure dependent on the retrieved information, e.g., the an alarm is turned on or off.
10. An alarm unit for use in an alarm system, comprising at least one sensor (14,16) and a communication interface (8), characterised in that the alarm unit comprises a control unit according to any of the claims 1-9.
11. An alarm unit for use in an alarm system, communicatively coupled to a sensor and siren unit (15), by means of a communication interface (8), characterised in that the alarm unit comprises a control unit according to any of the claims 1-9.
12. A method for use in an alarm system, comprising the steps of:
- connecting a control unit to a communication network, wherein said control unit is communicatively coupled to at least one sensor (14,16) by means of a communication interface (8); - establishing a communication between the control unit and an external unit by means of the communication network;-
- sending a status message based on status infoπnation from the sensor (14,16) to the external unit; and
- polling the external unit to check if new information is to be retrieved from the external unit to the control unit.
13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising the step of retrieving said new information from the external unit.
14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the retrieved information comprises information such as a change of the activated alarm profile or a change in a user defined alarm profile.
15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the step of taking a measure according to the retrieved information, e.g., turning on or off an alarm.
16. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step of connecting a control unit to a communication network comprises the step of connecting the control unit to the communication network by means of a wireless communication link.
17. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step of connecting a control unit to a communication network comprises the step of connecting the control unit to the communication network by means of a wired communication link.
18. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step of establishing a communication between the control unit and the external unit comprises the step of establishing the communication by means of a package based network.
19. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step of establishing a communication between the control unit and the external unit comprises the step of establishing an encrypted two-way communication.
20. A computer program product for use in a control unit communicatively connected to at least one sensor (14, 16) by means of a communication interface and connectable to an external unit by means of a communication network, characterised in a program unit arranged to control the control unit to continuously send status messages based on status information of the sensor (14,16) to the external unit and arranged to continuously poll the external unit to check if the external unit comprises information to be retrieved.
21. The computer program product according to claim 20, further comprising means for retrieving said new information from the external unit.
22. The computer program product according to claim 21, wherein the retrieved information comprises information such as a change of the activated alarm profile or a change in a user defined alarm profile.
23. The computer program product according to claim 22, further comprising means for taking a measure according to the retrieved information, e.g., turning on or off an alarm.
24. The computer program product according to claim 20, further comprising means for connecting the control unit to the communication network by means of a wireless communication connection, e.g. by means of radio wave or bluetooth technique.
25. The computer program product according to claim 20, further comprising means for connecting the control unit to the communication network by means of a wired communication link.
26. The computer program product according to claim 20, further comprising means for establishing a communication between the control unit and the external unit by means of a package based network.
27. The computer program product according to claim 20, further comprising means for establishing an encrypted two-way communication between the control unit and the external unit.
28. A smoke- and IR-detector comprising a smoke sensor (9004,1004) and a IR- sensor (9006,1006) with the belonging electronics including means for alarm and power source, to emit an alarm when any of the sensors (9004, 1004, 9006,1006) is activated, characterised in that the smoke sensor (9004,1004) and the IR-sensor (9006, 1006) are mounted on a printed circuit card (9002, 1002), wherein said sensors (9004,1004,9006,1006) are arranged on opposite sides of the printed circuit card (9002,1002).
29. The smoke- and IR-detector according to claim 28, characterised in that the detector is intended for ceiling mounting, wherein the smoke sensor (9004,1004) is arranged on the top of the printed circuit card (9002,1002) and the IR-sensor (9006,1006) is arranged on the underside of the printed circuit card (9002,1002).
30. The smoke- and IR-detector according to claim 28 or 29, characterised in that the IR-sensor (9006,1006) is arranged on a breakable part of the printed circuit card (9002,1002), so that the IR-sensor may be aπanged at a distance from the plane of the rest of the printed circuit card (9002, 1002).
31. The smoke- and IR-detector according to claim 30, characterised in that the IR- sensor (9006, 1006) is attached at the printed circuit card by means of its electrical connection (9008,1008).
32. The smoke- and IR-detector according to claim 31, characterised in that the electrical connection (9008, 1008) is a ribbon cable.
33. The smoke- and IR-detector according to any of the claims 28-32, characterised in that the detector comprises an upper part/an attachment plate (9001), intended to be attached at a ceiling or a wall, and a lower part (9005) at which the printed circuit (9002) is attached, wherein the lower part (9005) is attached at the upper part.
34. The smoke- and IR-detector according to claim 33, characterised in that an air gap (9011) is formed between the upper part (9001) and the lower part (9005) over 360°.
5. The smoke- and IR-detector according to any of the claims 28-32, characterised in that the smoke sensor (1004) has a free inlet for gases over the entire circumference of 360°.
PCT/SE2001/002368 2000-10-30 2001-10-29 Alarm apparatus WO2002037443A1 (en)

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AU2002212885A AU2002212885A1 (en) 2000-10-30 2001-10-29 Alarm apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
SE0003971A SE0003971L (en) 2000-06-28 2000-10-30 Multisensor for safety alarm
SE0003971-9 2000-10-30
SE0003972A SE0003972D0 (en) 2000-10-30 2000-10-30 Smoke and ir detector
SE0003972-7 2000-10-30

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CN102819927A (en) * 2011-06-07 2012-12-12 苏州科技学院 Fireproof anti-theft monitoring system based on ZigBee and Ethernet
FR2985351A1 (en) * 2012-01-04 2013-07-05 Finsecur Device for diffusing sound alarms in e.g. residence, has sound signal generator emitting first audio signal when control signal comes from first detection system and second audio signal when control signal comes from second detection system
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CN105389934A (en) * 2015-11-13 2016-03-09 苏州扬佛自动化设备有限公司 Security protection system having write-protection function
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CN106205026A (en) * 2016-09-27 2016-12-07 北海益生源农贸有限责任公司 A kind of household safe guard system based on Internet of Things
CN108022403A (en) * 2017-12-14 2018-05-11 宁波斯凯勒智能科技有限公司 A kind of Internet of Things wireless security system
CN111432088A (en) * 2020-05-25 2020-07-17 深圳市赋安安全系统有限公司 Fire-fighting telephone communication method and system
TWI736392B (en) 2020-08-10 2021-08-11 大鵬科技股份有限公司 Dynamic alarm priority system and method
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CN105389934A (en) * 2015-11-13 2016-03-09 苏州扬佛自动化设备有限公司 Security protection system having write-protection function
CN105469531A (en) * 2015-11-27 2016-04-06 中国电子科技集团公司第五十四研究所 Smart home-oriented security protection cooperative control method
CN106205026A (en) * 2016-09-27 2016-12-07 北海益生源农贸有限责任公司 A kind of household safe guard system based on Internet of Things
CN108022403A (en) * 2017-12-14 2018-05-11 宁波斯凯勒智能科技有限公司 A kind of Internet of Things wireless security system
CN111432088A (en) * 2020-05-25 2020-07-17 深圳市赋安安全系统有限公司 Fire-fighting telephone communication method and system
CN111432088B (en) * 2020-05-25 2021-08-20 深圳市赋安安全系统有限公司 Fire-fighting telephone communication method and system
TWI736392B (en) 2020-08-10 2021-08-11 大鵬科技股份有限公司 Dynamic alarm priority system and method
GB2624378A (en) * 2022-11-09 2024-05-22 Linked Up Alarms Ltd Improved alarm system

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